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Science News for July 24, 2014


Joblessness could kill you, but recessions could be good for your health

Researchers found that job loss is associated with a higher mortality rate, increasing by 73% among the unemployed, while economic slowdowns decrease population mortality. The study's findings reveal that recessions have health-promoting effects, outweighing the increased risk of death among the unemployed.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateJul 24, 2014
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Gene changes in breast cancer cells pinpointed with new computational method

A new computational method developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers can identify gene regulatory networks in breast cancer cells, revealing potential molecular targets for therapy. This approach has the potential to speed up drug development and improve treatment outcomes by identifying flawed drugs earlier.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJul 24, 2014

Pesticide linked to 3 generations of disease

A study published in PLOS ONE found that ancestral exposure to the pesticide methoxychlor can lead to adult-onset diseases like kidney disease and obesity in future generations. The researchers discovered epigenetic changes caused by methoxychlor exposure, which were transmitted through the female line and affected gene expression.

SourceWashington State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

A tiny new species of frog from Brazil with a heroic name

A new species of narrow-mouthed frog, Chiasmocleis quilombola, was discovered in the Atlantic Forest of Espírito Santo State, Brazil. The species is tiny, reaching only 14mm in length, and its heroic name refers to the quilombos communities that provided refuge for escaped slaves.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZooKeys·DateJul 24, 2014

Mechanism found for development of protective HIV antibodies

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that two B-cell lineage antibodies teamed up to stimulate broadly neutralizing antibodies in people with HIV infection. This cooperative mechanism may lead to a global vaccine strategy by inducing high levels of such antibodies in approximately 20% of individuals with HIV infection.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCell·DateJul 24, 2014
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Seeing the same GP at every visit will reduce emergency department attendance

Researchers from the University of Bristol found that patients who saw the same GP every time they attended their GP surgery were less likely to require emergency care. The report recommends targeted increases in continuity of care for high-risk groups, including older patients and those with multiple conditions.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBMJ Open·DateJul 24, 2014

NYSCF scientists one step closer to cell therapy for multiple sclerosis patients

Researchers at The New York Stem Cell Foundation have developed a new protocol to induce pluripotent stem cells into oligodendrocytes, the myelin-forming cells implicated in multiple sclerosis. This accelerated approach cuts production time almost in half, enabling researchers to study disease progression and develop potential treatments.

SourceNew York Stem Cell Foundation·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJul 24, 2014
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Noise pollution impacts fish species differently

A new study found that different fish species respond uniquely to noise pollution, with three-spined sticklebacks reacting faster to sound when a predator is present. This discovery highlights the need for targeted management of noise in marine environments to mitigate its effects on aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014

Link between ritual circumcision procedure and herpes infection in infants examined

A literature review found that metzitzah b'peh, a Jewish circumcision procedure involving oral suction, is likely a source of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) transmissions in infants. The practice has been linked to severe morbidity and potentially death in newborns, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateJul 24, 2014

Invertebrate numbers nearly halve as human population doubles

The study found that invertebrate numbers decreased by 45% over a 35-year period, with habitat loss and climate disruption being major contributors. This decline compromises nature's ability to provide essential services such as pollination, pest control, nutrient cycling, and water filtration.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateJul 24, 2014

Election surprises tend to erode trust in government

A new study from the University of Georgia found that people who were surprised by election outcomes are more skeptical of government and democracy. The study suggests that media fragmentation can lead to hearing only what individuals want to hear, eroding trust in elections and government.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournalism & Mass Communication Quarterly·DateJul 24, 2014
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New research: When it hurts to think we were made for each other

A new study by the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management finds that people who think of love as perfect unity have worse relationships than those who view it as a journey. Recalling conflicts with the unity frame in mind leads to less relationship satisfaction, while recalling celebrations has the opposite effect.

SourceUniversity of Toronto, Rotman School of Management·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJul 24, 2014

Zerenex (ferric citrate) long-term Phase 3 study results published in JASN

The Zerenex PERFECTED study demonstrated a highly statistically significant change in serum phosphorus, increases in serum ferritin and transferrin saturation, and significant reductions in IV iron and ESA usage. This could lead to significant pharmaco-economic benefits and improved patient care.

SourceEdelman, Orlando·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 24, 2014

Farmers market vouchers may boost produce consumption in low-income families

A study by NYU's Steinhardt School found that vouchers to buy fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers markets increased the amount of produce in the diets of some economically disadvantaged women. More than half reported consuming vegetables more frequently, with those who consumed little produce initially seeing the greatest increase.

SourceNew York University·JournalFood Policy·DateJul 24, 2014

Using media as a stress reducer can lead to feelings of guilt and failure

Researchers found that people who engaged in media use after work experienced higher levels of guilt and feelings of failure, rather than relaxation and recovery. This suggests that the use of media can conflict with other important duties and goals in everyday life.

SourceInternational Communication Association·JournalJournal of Communication·DateJul 24, 2014
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Fires in Central Africa during July 2014

Hundreds of wildfires covered central Africa in mid-July 2014, with multiple hotspots detected across the region. Strong winds exacerbated smoke from the fires, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 24, 2014

Unleashing the power of quantum dot triplets

Researchers have discovered a way to control quantum dot triplets using electrical impulses, which could lead to faster quantum computers. The study shows that changing the coupling of three coherently coupled quantum dots can induce a phase transition between entangled and disentangled electron states.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJul 24, 2014

A protein couple controls flow of information into the brain's memory center

Researchers discovered that CKAMP44 and TARP Gamma-8 proteins play a crucial role in controlling the flow of information into the hippocampus, a brain region essential for learning and memory. The proteins influence glutamate receptor activity, promoting or weakening synaptic connections, and enabling rapid sequence of signals.

SourceDZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases·JournalNeuron·DateJul 24, 2014

Early warning sign for babies at risk of autism

Early joint attention before one year is linked to later autism symptoms in high-risk siblings. Babies with lower levels of initiating joint attention without smiling are more likely to have elevated ASD symptoms by 30 months.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJul 24, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Western Indian Ocean communities play vital role in conservation

A study by the University of York found that community-led marine conservation is emerging as a key tool in the Western Indian Ocean, with over half of sites now under local stewardship. Locally managed marine areas have proven cost-effective and socially acceptable alternatives to traditional top-down methods.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014

Study shows role of media in sharing life events

A new study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that nearly 70% of social sharing took place via media, with participants preferring texting and Twitter for positive events. However, sharing negative news led to increased feelings of sadness and anxiety, highlighting the importance of considering emotional well-being when sh...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJul 24, 2014

Common blood thinner for pregnant women proven ineffective: Lancet study

A new study led by Dr. Marc Rodger finds that low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) has no positive benefits for pregnant women, and may even cause harm by increasing bleeding and reducing access to anesthesia during childbirth. The study's results are a significant relief for many women who had been prescribed the treatment for decades.

SourceThe Ottawa Hospital·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 24, 2014
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Natural products from plants protect skin during cancer radiotherapy

Three plant-derived compounds, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, and trans-cinnamic acid, have been found to protect human skin cells from gamma radiation-induced damage during cancer radiotherapy. The compounds reduced reactive oxygen species and DNA damage by up to 40% and 15%, respectively.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Low Radiation·DateJul 24, 2014

8.2 percent of our DNA is 'functional'

Researchers found that only 8.2% of human DNA has a clear function, with most being 'junk' DNA. This figure challenges the previous claim of 80% functional DNA, highlighting the need for a more precise definition of 'function'.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJul 24, 2014

Creating sustainable STEM teacher preparation programs

A new study by PhysTEC has identified two crucial factors for sustaining university and college programs designed to increase the number of highly qualified physics teachers. Faculty members who champion physics teacher education, combined with institutional motivation and commitment, can ensure program viability.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateJul 24, 2014

Atomic structure of key muscle component revealed in Penn study

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered the atomic structure of tropomodulin, a protein that caps actin filaments and regulates muscle movement. The study provides new insights into how mutations in tropomodulin can cause muscle disorders, such as nemaline myopathy.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalScience·DateJul 24, 2014
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Immune response may cause harm in brain injuries, disorders

Researchers at Cleveland Clinic found that the immune system's response to protein S100B may contribute to memory impairment and cognitive dysfunction associated with conditions like chronic epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that treatments targeting this autoimmune response could help alleviate symptoms.

SourceCleveland Clinic·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Ferric citrate may reduce dialysis patients' need for multiple medications

A medication called ferric citrate may reduce the need for dialysis patients to take multiple drugs that treat complications related to kidney disease. Ferric citrate binds phosphorus, increases iron stores, and decreases the need for iron and anemia medications, leading to fewer hospitalizations.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 24, 2014

Could age of first period influence development of diseases in older women?

Researchers found that imprinted genes influence puberty timing, linking it to breast cancer, diabetes, and heart disease risks. The study suggests a possible biological conflict between parents over their child's development, with the genetics involved potentially contributing to age-related conditions.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2014

Earlier Stone Age artifacts found in Northern Cape of South Africa

Archaeologists at the University of Toronto and University of Cape Town have uncovered tens of thousands of Earlier Stone Age artifacts in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. The site is estimated to be between 700,000 and one million years old, offering valuable insights into human evolution.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Metastatic brain tumor treatment could be on the horizon with use of SapC-DOPS

A Cincinnati Cancer Center study finds that SapC-DOPS, a combination of lysosomal protein saposin C and phospholipid DOPS, targets and kills cancer cells, including those from breast and lung cancers. The treatment showed promise in animal models, with some tumors completely cured within 24 hours.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJul 24, 2014

Brain's dynamic duel underlies win-win choices

A study found that brain activity in two regions correlates with opposing emotional reactions during win-win choices. This suggests that these circuits evolved for different reasons, one for evaluating the outcome and the other for guiding actions.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2014

BU researchers discover that Klotho is neuroprotective against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have discovered that pre-treatment with the anti-aging protein Klotho can prevent neuron death in the presence of toxic amyloid and glutamate. This finding suggests a potential treatment approach for Alzheimer's disease, which affects millions of Americans.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 24, 2014
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Experiences at every stage of life contribute to cognitive abilities in old age

A recent study published by researchers from UC Davis Alzheimer's Disease Center and the University of Victoria found that early life experiences, such as childhood socioeconomic status and literacy, have a greater influence on the risk of cognitive impairment late in life than demographic characteristics like race and ethnicity. The s...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Neuropsychology·DateJul 24, 2014

Study indicates large raptors in Africa used for bushmeat

A study reveals that over half of meat sold as bushmeat in Africa is from birds, with large raptors like eagles and vultures being disproportionately consumed. The findings highlight the significant impact of bushmeat trade on endangered species and human health globally.

SourceSan Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance·JournalOryx·DateJul 24, 2014

Parched West is using up underground water, UCI, NASA find

A new study by UCI and NASA scientists reveals that more than three-quarters of the water loss in the drought-stricken Colorado River Basin since late 2004 came from underground resources. The extent of groundwater loss may pose a greater threat to the region's water supply than previously thought.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 24, 2014
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

New imaging agent provides better picture of the gut

A new imaging agent has been developed for functional imaging of the intestine, potentially leading to better diagnosis and treatment of gut diseases. The agent uses a combination of photoacoustic imaging and positron emission tomography to provide high-definition images of the intestine in relation to the entire body.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 24, 2014

The microbes make the sake brewery

A study by the University of California, Davis, investigated a single-species inoculation in a sake brewery, finding that environmental surfaces harbor similar microbiota as added microorganisms. The microbial populations change dramatically across fermentation stages, with Aspergillus oryzae dominating the process.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 24, 2014

It takes two to court

Stowers researchers identified two classes of pheromone receptors that help male mice detect female presence and ovulation, essential for triggering the mating process. The findings provide new insight into how the mammalian brain processes sensory information like pheromones to elicit courtship behaviors.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·DateJul 24, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

New radiological signs of gastric lap band slippage identified

Researchers have identified two new radiological signs of potentially life-threatening gastric lap band slippage, enabling radiologists to accurately diagnose the condition. The new signs include inferior displacement of the superolateral band margin and air-fluid levels above the band on frontal radiographs.

SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateJul 24, 2014

Assessment on self-care ability of children with spina bifda

Children with spina bifida face challenges in self-care, mobility, and social function due to spasticity, urinary and fecal incontinence, and neurocognitive retardation. A study found that low-level lesions, muscular strength, and independence in mobility are crucial for functional independence.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 24, 2014

Highest-precision measurement of water in planet outside the solar system

A team of astronomers using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope measured water vapour in the atmospheres of three gas giants, finding levels one-tenth to one-thousandth that predicted by standard theory. This discovery raises questions about exoplanet formation and highlights challenges in searching for water on Earth-like planets.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 24, 2014
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Narcissistic CEOs and financial performance

A recent USC Marshall study found that companies led by narcissistic CEOs have higher earnings-per-share and share price than those with non-narcissistic CEOs. However, this may be achieved through short-term manipulations that can be detrimental to the company's long-term health.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalJournal of Management Accounting Research·DateJul 24, 2014

Incomplete HPV vaccination may offer some protection

A study found that minority women who received HPV vaccination even after becoming sexually active had lower rates of abnormal Pap test results. The study suggests that incomplete HPV vaccination may still offer some protection against cervical cancer and its precursors.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateJul 24, 2014

Leaf-mining insects destroyed with the dinosaurs, others quickly appeared

Leaf-mining insects completely disappeared after the dinosaur extinction event, only to reappear a million years later with diverse damage patterns. The researchers found nine different mine-damage types at Mexican Hat attributable to moths, wasps, and flies, suggesting an influx of novel insect herbivores during the early Paleocene.

SourcePenn State·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014

Piggy-backing cells hold clue to skin cancer growth

Researchers found that fast-growing melanoma cells 'piggy-back' with invasive cells to establish new tumors, increasing the disease's deadly potential. The discovery could lead to new treatments for aggressive melanoma.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 24, 2014
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Warning: Birthdays can be bad for your health

Researchers found a significant increase in hospital admissions among young Ontarians during their 19th birthday week, with spikes also observed at other ages. Birthday-related drinking was associated with upsurges in hospital admissions, particularly for alcohol-related events.

SourceWiley·JournalAddiction·DateJul 24, 2014

New approach to form non-equilibrium structures

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new technique to create non-equilibrium systems by injecting energy through oscillations, enabling the self-assembly of particles under non-equilibrium conditions. This breakthrough brings scientists closer to understanding the fundamentals of non-equilibrium thermodynamics.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 24, 2014

Antioxidant biomaterial promotes healing

Northwestern University professor Guillermo Ameer's team created a biodegradable, antioxidant biomaterial that reduces scarring and heals diabetic ulcers. The material is made from citric acid and vitamin C, and has potential applications in tissue engineering, medical device coating, and regenerative medicine.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBiomaterials·DateJul 24, 2014
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Experiments prove 'stemness' of individual immune memory cells

Researchers identified central memory T cells as multipotent and self-renewing, generating diverse types of offspring to fight infections. This discovery has implications for clinical cell therapy and may improve the efficacy of immune-based treatments for cancers and other diseases.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalImmunity·DateJul 24, 2014

New research suggests Saharan dust is key to the formation of Bahamas' Great Bank

Researchers from the University of Miami found that iron-rich Saharan dust provides nutrients for specialized bacteria producing carbonate-based foundation. The study suggests that high concentrations of iron-rich dust blown across the Atlantic Ocean are responsible for the formation of the Great Bahama Bank.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalGeology·DateJul 24, 2014

Astronomers come up dry in search for water on exoplanets

Researchers found water vapour abundance to be between ten and a thousand times less than predicted models, raising questions about the chemical processes involved in planet formation. The discovery has implications for searching for life on exoplanets capable of supporting it.

SourceDunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 24, 2014

Test helps predict which children with kidney disease will respond to standard therapy

A genetic screening test can predict which children with one of the most common childhood kidney diseases will respond to standard therapies, guiding treatment and improving clinical outcomes. The test was found to be more predictive than a kidney biopsy in identifying non-responders to immunosuppressive treatments.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJul 24, 2014
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Researchers discover new way to determine cancer risk of chemicals

Researchers developed a predictive model to identify carcinogenic chemicals using gene expression response in the liver, improving cancer screening and evaluation processes. The new approach enables accurate and cost-effective screening for over 80,000 chemicals currently in commercial use.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 24, 2014

Background TV can be bad for kids

A University of Iowa study found that background TV can divert children's attention from play and learning, negatively affecting cognitive development. Parents who create a loving and nurturing environment with set rules and expectations can help buffer these impacts.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateJul 24, 2014
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

ORNL study reveals new characteristics of complex oxide surfaces

Researchers at ORNL used microscopy and data processing to study the surface of a perovskite manganite, revealing a Jahn-Teller distortion caused by oxygen atoms. This finding could improve our understanding of sensitive applications like solid fuel cells and oxygen sensors.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2014

Fighting bacteria -- with viruses

Researchers have discovered how viruses called bacteriophages can be engineered to target and destroy a range of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant C. diff, which causes fatal infections in hospitals. The study provides hope for developing an alternative to antibiotics.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 24, 2014

NRG1 isoforms could be an effective therapeutic candidate to promote peripheral nerve regeneration

Researchers at the University of Western Australia discovered that soluble NRG1 plays a role in early peripheral nerve regeneration phases, promoting axon degeneration and regrowth. Soluble NRG1, already used in human trials for heart failure treatment, may be an effective therapeutic candidate to promote nerve regeneration.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 24, 2014
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Stanford study shows how to power California with wind, water and sun

A new Stanford study outlines a plan to convert California's all-purpose energy infrastructure to renewable energy by 2050. The plan could create tens of thousands of jobs and save billions in pollution-related health costs while reducing air pollution mortality and global warming emissions.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnergy·DateJul 24, 2014

Four-billion-year-old chemistry in cells today

Researchers at the University of East Anglia have found that cells in plants, yeast, and animals continue to perform reactions thought to be responsible for life's origin four billion years ago. These reactions involve iron, sulfur, and electro-chemistry, essential for functions like respiration and photosynthesis.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 24, 2014

Choice bias: A quirky byproduct of learning from reward

Researchers discovered a link between credit assignment and choice bias, finding that people value rewards they choose more than equivalent rewards not chosen. The study used computational modeling and behavioral experiments to test the hypothesis, and found evidence supporting the proposed biological mechanism.

SourceBrown University·JournalNeuron·DateJul 24, 2014
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Stronger early reading skills predict higher intelligence later

A new study of identical twins found that early reading skills are positively associated with later intellectual abilities. The researchers tested 1,890 pairs of twins from ages 7 to 16 and found a link between reading ability and intelligence.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateJul 24, 2014

UTHealth Dr. Bhavani Iyer awarded low vision grant

Dr. Bhavani Iyer has been awarded a $164,645 SightFirst grant to provide outreach programs and education for thousands in Harris County with low vision. The program aims to address barriers faced by individuals with low vision and offer resources such as low vision devices and training.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·DateJul 24, 2014

Hubble finds 3 surprisingly dry exoplanets

Astronomers using NASA's Hubble Space Telescope found three 'hot Jupiters' with significantly lower than expected water vapor levels, challenging current theories on planet formation and migration. The discovery may require instruments to be designed with higher sensitivity for future space telescopes searching for water in potentially...

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 24, 2014

Cultural stereotypes may evolve from sharing social information

Research suggests that cultural stereotypes form and evolve as social information is repeatedly passed down a chain of individuals. Stereotypes become simpler, more structured, and easier to learn, reflecting cognitive limitations and biases.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateJul 24, 2014
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

One route to malaria drug resistance found

Scientists found mutations in the PfHAD1 protein, which normally slows down isoprenoid synthesis. This discovery is relevant for other infectious diseases like tuberculosis and bacterial infections.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 2014

New hope for powdery mildew resistant barley

Researchers discovered a way to increase polysaccharides in barley plants, blocking fungal penetration and creating more resistant lines available for growers. Powdery mildew is a significant problem worldwide, causing up to 25% yield reductions and market value losses.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateJul 24, 2014
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Monitoring the rise and fall of the microbiome

A study tracking bacterial populations over a year found daily fluctuations in response to diet and other factors. The researchers also discovered that certain strains of bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, can be protected against inflammatory bowel disease by eating citrus.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalGenome Biology·DateJul 24, 2014

RSV research breakthrough to help infected children

A new drug, AL-8176, has been shown to safely reduce RSV viral load and clinical illness in healthy adult volunteers. The Phase 2 challenge study achieved primary and secondary endpoints of lower viral load and improvements in symptom scores.

SourceLe Bonheur Children's Hospital·DateJul 24, 2014

Shift work linked to heightened risk of type 2 diabetes

Research suggests that shift work is associated with a heightened risk of developing type 2 diabetes, particularly among men and those working rotating shift patterns. The study found a 37% increased risk for men and a 9% increased risk for all participants compared to working normal office hours.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJul 24, 2014
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New mass map of a distant galaxy cluster is the most precise yet

Astronomers have mapped the mass within a galaxy cluster, MCS J0416.1-2403, more precisely than ever before using unprecedented depth of data from Hubble's Frontier Fields programme. The team identified 51 new multiply imaged galaxies around the cluster, quadrupling the number found in previous surveys.

SourceESA/Hubble Information Centre·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 24, 2014

Moose drool inhibits growth of toxic fungus: York U research

Research at York University reveals that moose drool can slow down the growth of a toxic fungus in red fescue grass, reducing its toxicity. The study suggests that repeated exposure to moose saliva may lead to lower toxin levels in affected areas.

SourceYork University·JournalBiology Letters·DateJul 24, 2014
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.